Scientists at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a powder-based treatment that addresses a critical challenge in emergency medicine. The material, known as AGCL powder, forms a strong hydrogel barrier almost instantly when applied to injuries, sealing even deep or irregularly shaped wounds that traditional bandages struggle to treat.
The research team, led by Professor Steve Park and Professor Sangyong Jon, included Ph.D. candidate Kyusoon Park, an Army Major whose experience shaped the practical design. The powder combines three natural materials: alginate from seaweed, gellan gum from bacteria, and chitosan from crustacean shells. When the powder contacts blood, it reacts with calcium ions naturally present in the body, transforming into a solid gel that physically seals the wound while accelerating the body's natural clotting process.
Testing revealed impressive performance characteristics. The material can absorb more than seven times its own weight in blood and maintains an adhesive strength exceeding 40 kilopascals, roughly equivalent to a strong hand press. Animal experiments showed cell viability rates above 99 percent and antibacterial effectiveness of 99.9 percent, with tissue regeneration effects including rapid wound recovery and promotion of blood vessel and collagen growth.
The powder remains stable for two years even when stored at room temperature in high humidity, making it practical for emergency kits in challenging environments. While developed with trauma care in mind, the technology has broad applications in emergency medicine, surgery, and disaster response. The researchers hope it will serve communities in medically underserved areas and developing countries, as well as situations where traditional medical interventions are difficult to access quickly.